03 June 2007
Oh, why does it have to be grey and overcast this evening, the evening on which I've made the cutest pie ever? I had to sidle right up to the window to photograph it:
It's the Wholemeal Apricot Pie from Apples for Jam, and it's ever so sweet to look at. I halved the original recipe and baked it in my 6" two-piece cake pan. The crust is really nice -- I was skeptical about using only wholewheat flour, thinking it would be a bit too gritty, but it's not at all. It's definitely wholemeal, but it's sweet and tender enough that one doesn't mind. And I love the way you fold it over the filling; it's such a rustic-y look.
I followed the recipe pretty much to the letter; the only difference was using half the called for butter in both the apple puree base and to top. Annoyingly, I had to make the apple puree twice, as I managed to burn the first batch (I love my gas hob, but I must remember that when a recipe says 'medium burner', that equals Really Quite Low on my stove). So that was one apple wasted -- bah.
It's a lovely little pie, I'm happy to report. The apricots are very tart, but both the apple sauce and the crust are nicely sweet, so it's a perfect balance. In Apples for Jam, she says something along the lines of liking to have something healthy to serve the children when they come home from school. I'm not sure I could ever consider pie to be healthy, wholemeal or no -- but if it's possible, then this might be the one! Yum.
And one last picture of the peonies, to finish. They must be one of my favourite flowers -- I haven't taken the time to make a list, so I can't be sure. But I'm amazed at the way they've opened up since I brought them home -- they were still closed at the market!
The pie looks scrumptious! And the peonies are lovely. What a beautiful shade of pink. Your photography is gorgeous, might I add.
posted by Maritza at June 3, 2007 03:44 AM
yum. that looks amazing. i will have to check out that cookbook.
posted by jen at June 3, 2007 12:41 PM
Hi from Bulgaria!
your photos are amazing and both the pie and the flowers look gorgeous!!!
xox
posted by ruthie at June 3, 2007 07:59 PM
The pie looks great! Yum!
posted by sara at June 3, 2007 08:14 PM
what a great pie crust. i love how its all self-contained and can stand up on its own
posted by connie at June 3, 2007 09:02 PM
The pie and the peonies look irreistable!
posted by rachel at June 4, 2007 02:38 AM
I've had way too much time on my hands today (a rarity that I didn't quite know how to handle), and I ended up finding your blog because Bloglines says you are a related feed to mine...
Anyway, I'm loving your recipes, your creations, and your lovely photography. I'll be back for more!
posted by sulu-design at June 4, 2007 03:19 AM
Your best photos ever. Martha Stewart would love your blog!
posted by Tina at June 4, 2007 05:58 AM
Peonies are definitely my favourite flower. They are so so pretty.
I just got your book Crafter's Companion out of the library and I love it! I shall have to see if I can order it from Borders. It is just full of gorgeousness. Thank you.
posted by Sarah at June 5, 2007 08:28 AM
I've enjoyed my first visit- thanks! The pie COULD be healthy if you decide to think of it as 2 fruit and 1 fibre portion...
posted by janet clare at June 5, 2007 04:13 PM
That looks simply delish, and the peonies are beautiful, I'm quite envious as my peonies have failed to flower this year grrrr.
posted by Joy at June 6, 2007 09:24 AM
Lovely pie - I love that book and I'll definitely try that pie!
posted by ninimakes at June 6, 2007 04:21 PM
Tremendous! Have you tried the King Arthur "light" whole wheat flour - a different genetic strain but still whole wheat. I've just added the book to my list.
Envious of your peonies. Ours are still pending - will burst in the next couple of days.
posted by nuttnbunny at June 6, 2007 08:46 PM